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The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Used Longboard: What to Look For and Where to Find It

Looking to cruise down the boardwalk or carve through city streets? A longboard might be just what you need. But new longboards can be a significant investment. That’s where the used longboard market comes in. Buying a used longboard can be a fantastic way to save money and still get a quality ride. However, it’s crucial to know what to look for to avoid ending up with a board that’s more trouble than it’s worth. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about buying a used longboard, from assessing the condition of the board to finding the best deals.

Why Buy a Used Longboard?

There are several compelling reasons to consider purchasing a used longboard:

Cost Savings: This is the most obvious benefit. You can often find used longboards for a fraction of the price of a new one.
Entry Point: If you’re new to longboarding, a used longboard allows you to try the sport without a huge financial commitment. It’s a low-risk way to see if longboarding is right for you.
Variety: The used longboard market offers a wide range of board types and brands. You might find a high-end board that’s normally out of your price range available at a discounted price.
Sustainability: Buying used longboards is an environmentally friendly choice. It gives a board a second life and reduces the demand for new production, which conserves resources and reduces waste.

Where to Find Used Longboards

Now that you know why buying used longboards is a good idea, let’s explore where you can find them:

Online Marketplaces: Websites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay are treasure troves of used longboards. These platforms allow you to connect directly with sellers in your local area or from across the country.
Local Skate Shops: Some skate shops sell used longboards on consignment or as trade-ins. Check with your local shops to see what they have available.
Online Forums and Communities: Longboarding forums and online communities often have classifieds sections where members sell their used longboards.
Garage Sales and Flea Markets: Keep an eye out for garage sales and flea markets in your area. You might stumble upon a hidden gem at a bargain price.
Friends and Family: Don’t forget to ask your friends and family if they have any used longboards they’re willing to sell or give away.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Longboard

Before you hand over your cash for a used longboard, it’s essential to inspect it thoroughly. Here’s what to look for:

The Deck

The deck is the heart of the longboard, so it’s crucial to assess its condition carefully.

Cracks: Check for cracks, especially around the mounting holes for the trucks. Small cracks can worsen over time and compromise the board’s integrity. Avoid boards with significant cracks.
Delamination: Delamination occurs when the layers of wood in the deck separate. Look for bubbles or raised areas on the deck surface. Minor delamination might be repairable, but severe delamination is a red flag.
Warping: Place the board on a flat surface and check for warping. A warped deck can affect the board’s handling and stability.
Wear and Tear: Scratches and minor cosmetic damage are normal, but excessive wear and tear can indicate that the board has been heavily used and may be nearing the end of its lifespan.

The Trucks

The trucks are the metal axles that connect the wheels to the deck. They play a crucial role in the board’s steering and stability.

Bent Axles: Check for bent axles, which can affect the board’s handling. Spin the wheels to see if they wobble.
Worn Bushings: Bushings are the rubber or urethane cushions that allow the trucks to turn. Worn bushings can make the board feel loose and unstable. Replacements are inexpensive and easy to install.
Stripped Threads: Check the threads on the kingpin and axle nuts. Stripped threads can make it difficult to tighten the trucks properly.
Rust: Some rust is normal, but excessive rust can weaken the trucks.

The Wheels

The wheels are what make the board roll, so they need to be in good condition.

Flat Spots: Flat spots occur when the wheels are worn unevenly, often from sliding or braking. Flat spots can make the board vibrate and reduce its speed.
Cracks: Check for cracks in the wheels, especially around the edges. Cracks can weaken the wheels and cause them to fail.
Wear: Some wear is normal, but excessive wear can indicate that the wheels are nearing the end of their lifespan.
Bearings: The bearings allow the wheels to spin freely. Spin each wheel and listen for any grinding or squeaking noises, which could indicate worn bearings. Replacing bearings is relatively inexpensive.

Grip Tape

The grip tape provides traction for your feet. It should be clean and provide adequate grip.

Tears: Check for tears or rips in the grip tape.
Dirt: Excessive dirt can reduce the grip tape’s effectiveness.
Wear: Worn grip tape can be slippery. Replacing grip tape is relatively inexpensive and easy.

Questions to Ask the Seller

When buying a used longboard, it’s a good idea to ask the seller some questions to get a better understanding of the board’s history and condition:

How long have you owned the board?
How often did you ride the board?
What kind of riding did you do with the board?
Has the board been involved in any accidents?
Have you made any modifications to the board?
Why are you selling the board?

Negotiating the Price

Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price of a used longboard. Research the market value of similar boards to get an idea of what’s a fair price. Point out any flaws or issues you find with the board and use them as leverage to negotiate a lower price. Be respectful and reasonable in your negotiations.

Safety First

Before you start riding your used longboard, make sure you have the proper safety gear, including a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads. Practice in a safe, open area away from traffic. Start slowly and gradually increase your speed and difficulty as you become more comfortable. Always be aware of your surroundings and follow local traffic laws.

Maintenance Tips for Your Used Longboard

To keep your used longboard in good condition and prolong its lifespan, follow these maintenance tips:

Clean the board regularly: Wipe down the deck, trucks, and wheels with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.
Lubricate the bearings: Apply a few drops of skateboard bearing lubricant to the bearings every few months to keep them spinning smoothly.
Tighten the hardware: Check the nuts and bolts on the trucks and wheels regularly and tighten them as needed.
Store the board properly: Store the board in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Conclusion

Buying a used longboard can be a smart and economical way to get into longboarding or expand your quiver. By following the tips in this guide, you can find a quality used longboard that will provide you with years of enjoyment. Remember to inspect the board carefully, ask the seller questions, negotiate the price, and prioritize safety. Happy riding!

[See also: Choosing the Right Longboard for Your Riding Style]

[See also: Longboard Maintenance: A Comprehensive Guide]